Wetsuits began in 1951 as an experiment for the United States Navy by Hugh Bradner, a physicist with the University of California-Berkley. About a year later, surfer Jack O'Neil developed a surfing wetsuit. In 1992, wetsuit companies such as Performance Speed Suits realized that swimmers needed a different wetsuit then those surfers used. Modern swimming wetsuits provide insulation against cold water, buoyancy and a level body position in the water, increasing speed while reducing drag.
Blue Seventy Sprint
Blue Seventy has been making wetsuits designed for swimmers and triathletes since 1993. The Sprint design is for the entry-level open water swimmer. The suit has central buoyancy panels, which help maintain a level body position in the water. The Sprint's construction has a maximum thickness of 5 millimeters, with a minimum of 2 millimeters. Generous underarm gussets allow maximum reach and flexibility during the entire stroke. Anatomical panels in the Sprint minimize restriction of the body, while the low collar line eliminates chafing around the neck. There are flaps over the zippers, keeping water out of the suit and reducing drag. The Blue Seventy Sprint has an estimated retail price of $199.99 for 2010.
Orca S3
The Orca S3 is a full-sleeve, entry-level suit that features neoprene throughout. The suit offers flexibility, using 2-millimeter quad-stretch panels in the shoulders. To assist with the important catch phase of the stroke, Orca has incorporated a forearm panel, called hydro-stroke, that helps the swimmer generate more power. Under the arm, the S3 has a 2-millimeter Quadra-flex panel, as well as 5-millimeter hydro-lift body panels in the leg and torso portion of the suit to keep the swimmer level in the water. Other features include a 3-millimeter smooth skin tab in the neck area to eliminate chaffing and water entry, and slipstream zippers to reduce drag. The Orca S3 has an estimated retail price of $199 for 2010.
Zoot Flash
The Flash is a new wetsuit for 2010, designed for the entry-level open water swimmer. The Flash has neoprene construction with a hydrodynamic coating to reduce friction. The glued and blind stitching make for a strong and flexible suit. The Flash has 4-millimeter panels from the chest through the thighs to ensure a correct, level body position in the water. The Flash has water-repelling nylon jersey lining, big catch panels on the forearms, and large underarm gussets for a long glide and flexibility during the stroke. The hidden zipper with 16-inch pull cord is streamlined to allow for a fast exit from the suit. A smooth skin collar provides comfort and keeps out water. The Zoot Flash for 2010 has an estimated retail price of $199.99.
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